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Dacor Microwave is tripping circuit breaker

If your Dacor microwave is tripping the breaker, especially when the door opens or closes, a defective door switch is the most likely cause. Most models use three or four interlock switches, including the primary door switch, secondary door switch, and monitor switch, which must operate in sequence. A failed switch can create a short that blows the line fuse or trips the circuit breaker. If the switches test good, a shorted high-voltage capacitor is the next likely cause, followed by a shorted magnetron. A failed high-voltage transformer is less common, but it may arc or produce a burnt smell when it shorts. These components are inside the cabinet, where the high-voltage capacitor can store a lethal charge even after the microwave is unplugged. Proper capacitor discharge is required before testing or replacing any interior part, and this repair may require a qualified technician if you are not familiar with the procedure. Enter your Dacor microwave model number to find the exact replacement door switch, high-voltage capacitor, magnetron, or transformer for your appliance.

01 - Dacor Microwave Door Switch

Most microwaves have three or four door switches. When the microwave door closes, the door switches actuate in sequence to ensure that the door is closed properly. If any of the door switches fail, the microwave line fuse can blow, or the circuit breaker may trip. To determine if any of the door switches are defective, use a multimeter to test each of the switches for continuity. If any of the door switches lack continuity, replace the defective switch. (Caution: The microwave oven can store thousands of volts of electricity in its high voltage capacitor, even after the microwave oven has been unplugged. Due to the potenti...al for electric shock, it is extremely dangerous to replace the electronic components in a microwave. Only a licensed technician should replace a door switch.)
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02 - Dacor Microwave High Voltage Capacitor

A microwave that is tripping a circuit breaker can be caused by a shorted high voltage capacitor. You can determine that a capacitor has shorted by contacting one multimeter lead to one of the capacitor's terminals and the other lead to the casing. If meter display indicates that electrical continuity is present between any of the capacitor terminals and the casing, or the terminals show continuous continuity between them, the component has shorted and will need to be replaced.
Uncommon But Possible

03 - Dacor Microwave Magnetron

A microwave that is tripping a circuit breaker can be caused by a shorted magnetron. You can determine that a magnetron has shorted by contacting one multimeter lead to one of the magnetron's terminals and the other lead to the casing. If meter display indicates that electrical continuity is present between any of the terminals and the casing, the magnetron has shorted and will need to be replaced.
Uncommon But Possible

04 - Dacor Microwave High Voltage Transformer

A microwave that is tripping a circuit breaker can be caused by a shorted high voltage transformer. When a high voltage transformer shorts out, it will usually arc and smell burnt.
Uncommon But Possible

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Dacor microwave tripping the circuit breaker?
Why does my Dacor microwave trip the breaker when I open the door?
Could a high-voltage capacitor, magnetron, or transformer cause my Dacor microwave to trip the breaker?
Can I keep resetting the breaker if my Dacor microwave keeps tripping it?
How do I find the correct Dacor microwave door switch or other replacement part?